As many positives that Skype can boast, there are also flaws with the program. Its benefits can only reach as far as Internet access is able. A strong connection is required for clear, continuous conferencing. If the connection is weaker, the picture may freeze or have a time lag and the sound does not transfer. Should this occur, one user may not know it has happened and would not know they must repeat the information that was not transmitted because of the defect. This can cause misinterpretations or just a waste of time when they must repeat themselves. Because of the unreliability, it's hard to compare using Skype in the classroom and a professor physically being present. A professor being in the classroom can never freeze; therefore class can be conducted without the possibility of technical interruption. All in all, Skype can never substitute 100% with the physical presence of a professor.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
What's all the hype about Skype?
The video conferencing tool known as Skype has become popular almost exponentially. Connecting people across the globe through not just text, but rather picture and video. When people can't physically be together, Skype is the closest possible way of being in the same location. The video capabilities allow users to read body language and facial signs that phone or instant messaging lacks. As far as classroom use, Skype would be beneficial for uses such as guest speakers or when the professor can not attend class for some reason. Also, it could allow for broadcasting of classes to many different locations which could reach a greater amount of people than say, one lecture room could hold.
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I did not think of the possibility of using Skype for a guest speaker, but this would be a fantastic use for it. A guest speaker doesn't usually conduct a discussion with the class, but rather just speaks, so the problems associated with trying to hold a classroom discussion via Skype would be avoided. Also, the guest speaker would not have to make a long trip or even a short one to go speak for twenty minutes, they would be able to speak from wherever they were at that particular time, saving them time and money.
ReplyDeleteI also thought the idea of using Skype for a guest speaker was an excellent application. A question-and-answer based discussion between a guest speaker and students would be much simpler than a conversation between students and a professor. Also, if a speaker had an extremely busy schedule, it would be much easier for them to set aside just a half hour or so to actually speak and not have to worry about travel time.
ReplyDeleteAlthough you mention that Skype can reach a greater audience than a lecture can hold, I do not think the learning process can be as affective if the teacher does not have full control. A guest speaker would most likely want to see his audience in person as he or she is a probably more motivational in this setting.
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